Safety is one of the most important responsibilities for anyone working in the food service industry. Every item sold or meal served relies on workers who understand proper handling techniques, hygiene standards and state-mandated procedures that protect the public from foodborne illnesses. For this reason, Texas requires most employees who handle food to complete an approved handler program.
We make the process of getting certified simple. Our 100% online food handler program is approved by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and recognized in every county.
Anyone who handles, prepares, serves or stores food in a commercial setting is considered a food handler. This includes individuals who come into indirect contact with food, the containers it is kept in or the equipment used to process items.
Examples of food handler jobs include:
If you work in any of these roles, you need a food handler card. Having the certification shows employers that you understand food safety practices and can abide by local and federal food service industry regulations.
Texas law requires employees who handle food, utensils or food-contact surfaces to complete a DSHS-approved food handler program within 60 days of employment. This license is valid for two years and must be renewed before it expires.
Employers must keep proof of training on site and ensure that every employee who qualifies as a food handler can present valid documentation when asked. But it’s up to workers to keep their permits up to date.
While local jurisdictions may add their own requirements, training standards are the same throughout the state.
Earning your credential is quick and easy. Here's what to do:
Your certification is valid for two years and must be renewed before the expiration date to continue working in food service.
We know you're busy. That's why we designed a smooth and simple certification program. When you enroll in our course, you can expect:
With no quizzes, no final exam and the ability to work entirely at your own pace, getting your food handler card has never been this easy.
Our food safety training course is designed for individuals at all skill levels, from brand-new hires to seasoned employees needing to renew their credentials. It covers all the topics required by the Texas DSHS so you can provide responsible service.
Over the course of your training, you’ll learn about food safety guidelines and state laws related to:
Lessons are divided into easy-to-follow modules that you can progress through at your own pace. They provide real-world examples and practical tips you can use on the job immediately.
Food handler cards in Texas are valid for two years. Once your expiration date approaches, you’ll need to renew your permit by retaking an approved course.
Because the material is updated to reflect current guidelines and best practices, renewing also refreshes knowledge and reinforces effective habits. Many workers find that the refresher allows them to approach familiar tasks with a new perspective and a stronger understanding of why the rules matter.
To avoid any issues, we recommend signing up for the renewal course at least two months before your current card expires.
The DSHS sets the requirements for food handler certification in Texas. Only programs that receive DSHS approval are recognized across all state jurisdictions. This ensures consistency: An employee trained in Houston will learn the same essential skills and knowledge as one trained in Austin.
While counties and cities may add additional local rules or permit conditions, an approved food handler certificate satisfies the state-level expectation everywhere in Texas. Employers must keep records on-site and ensure employees can produce documentation during inspections.
Yes. It meets the TX-DSHS state standard and is recognized across all cities and counties.
You can use a smartphone, tablet, computer or any other internet-ready device.
About two hours. However, you can move at your own pace, pause and resume as often as you like. Your progress is saved automatically, so you can continue exactly where you left off.
No. You don’t have to pass any quizzes or exams to get your Texas good handler certification online. Just finish all the lessons to pass.
You can download and print your official Texas food handler permit immediately after finishing the course.
If you misplace your card, simply log back in to your account and download a copy.
No. Texas law requires food handlers to renew their permits every two years. Working with an expired card can lead to serious consequences, including disciplinary action or termination for employees and fines for the establishment. You can avoid these potential penalties by renewing your certification well before it expires.
Local health authorities regularly inspect food establishments in Texas. During a food safety inspection, agents review documentation and observe employee behavior. They may ask employees about correct holding temperatures, allergen protocols or cleaning practices.
Showing inspectors your state-approved certificate provides immediate proof that you’re well-prepared to do your job and keep customers safe.
Earning this certificate proves you have the expertise to ensure food safety for the public. By completing the training, you'll master local food handling regulations and their application in daily operations.
Employers gain too. Properly trained staff minimize violations and cross-contamination risks, fostering a safety-first culture. Detailed training records ensure compliance with state and local laws.
Getting your food handler certification before applying for a position makes a great impression and can help you stand out among other candidates. Hiring managers appreciate new team members who take safety seriously from day one. It shows initiative, preparedness and that you know how to perform essential tasks correctly.
This training is designed for all workers who come into contact with food, utensils or preparation surfaces. The food manager training course is intended for individuals in supervisor roles and helps prepare them for the state-required test.
